Patient Questions

Michael Stern is an Expert Contributor on FindaTopDoc. Here are some of their recent answers to patient questions.

Dentist
Michael D. Stern, DDS, FAGD

It should feel natural after you get used to the replacement area having teeth there again...might take a week or 2 to get used to things. After those few weeks, most people forget that the bridge is actually there. MDSDDS

A dentist that uses any of the following devices can tell the difference. Devices to use: -Dexis Carivu -ECD electronic cavity detector (is the newest way to follow this up because it is unaffected by stain) Good Luck! MDSDDS

The fix you are seeking would require a dental exam and an X-ray of the tooth to be done in a dental office. There are many possible causes. Is this from decay or the result of dental work? If you do not have a regular dentist, it might be the time to get one! MDSDDS

Whitening solution works on teeth, not on dentures. MDSDDS

Not normal; contact your dentist.

Unfortunately, there are so many possibilities here that I cannot tell you to do anything but stay away from the area, and if things do not tighten up, seeing your dentist would be a good idea. MDSDDS

Practice flawless oral hygiene and this should assure that your teeth do not become darker than they are now. MDSDDS

This sounds like an infection that could become dangerous. You should seek a consult with a dentist, NOT the ER!!! MDSDDS

Root canal therapy usually is done in one or two appointments, but there are exceptions. That’s a pretty long interval between your appointments. If discomfort persists for more than 5 days, notify your dentist. MDSDDS

Higher risk for gum disease and tooth decay. MDSDDS

If the crown fits properly, there should NOT be a problem because there would not be a space to allow food to get under the crown. Try an oral irrigation device like a water pic; this sounds like a dental visit would be indicated. MDSDDS

I have a degree in Microbiology, and I am not aware of peer-reviewed research that having root canal therapy could possibly hinder lung healing, unless the root canals themselves failed or were infected. MDSDDS

Assuming the treatment was successful and you are comfortable, no precautions are needed unless you have a temporary filling, in which case, see your dentist to have the tooth properly restored. MDSDDS

Tough to answer without seeing your situation. Depending on the skill of the dentist, as long as the tooth is not decayed or broken below the gum line, it usually can be rebuilt and crowned. MDSDDS

I have corrected many cross bites with orthodontics. MDSDDS

Properly made and kept clean, no danger, allergy excepted. MDSDDS

Cannot directly answer your question. This could be technique or actual gum disease. If you have not seen a dentist within the past year, it might be a good idea. Bleeding gums are not normal. MDSDDS

Not normal. Possible that there was moisture contamination at placement. See your veneer Doc and have your veneer re-cemented. If it comes off again, then there is a problem. MDSDDS

They CAN be used, but are not quite as successful in the upper jaw as in the lower jaw. The treating dentist should be able to analyze what is best in your situation. MDSDDS